Buyer I (Direct Procurement)

Buyer I (Direct Procurement)

Location: Northridge, CA (100% On-Site)
Assignment: 3-Month Contract with Potential for Extension or Conversion
Pay Rate: $51/hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday

Position Summary

We are seeking a Buyer I to support direct material procurement for a global pharmaceutical manufacturing organization. This role is responsible for purchasing raw materials and production supplies that support manufacturing operations while ensuring quality, cost, and delivery objectives are met. Working closely with Production, Supply Chain, Quality, and suppliers, the Buyer I will manage purchase orders, monitor inventory levels, coordinate supplier performance, and help maintain uninterrupted production in a regulated manufacturing environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career procurement professional looking to grow their experience in supply chain, sourcing, and purchasing within the pharmaceutical or medical device industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Purchase direct materials to support production schedules using ERP/MRP systems.
• Create and manage purchase orders while ensuring timely supplier confirmations and deliveries.
• Monitor inventory levels, demand requirements, and supplier lead times to maintain material availability.
• Support supplier sourcing, evaluation, and pricing negotiations.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, Planning, and Supply Chain teams to resolve material shortages and delivery issues.
• Track supplier performance and assist with continuous improvement initiatives.
• Review purchasing data and inventory reports to support procurement decisions.
• Assist with supplier quality activities, including corrective actions (SCAR/CAPA) as needed.
• Maintain accurate purchasing documentation and ensure compliance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and support cross-functional projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience (or a Master's degree with relevant internship or project experience).
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ERP/MRP systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in pharmaceutical, medical device, biotech, or another regulated manufacturing industry.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 (D365), SAP, Oracle, or similar ERP systems.
• Knowledge of Power BI or other reporting tools.
• Understanding of inventory planning, supplier management, and sourcing.
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• APICS/ASCM certification or coursework is a plus.